Final answer:
Multiphoton microscopy is superior for examining thick specimens and living tissues due to its use of long-wavelength light for penetration and reduced photodamage, whereas confocal microscopy, relying on a laser and pinhole, has better image clarity but limited depth capabilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Multiphoton microscopy is considered better than confocal microscopy for a few key reasons. The use of long-wavelength light such as infrared in multiphoton microscopy allows for deeper penetration into thick specimens without causing damage to the cells. This distinction is particularly useful when examining living cells within intact tissues. The need for two photons to strike simultaneously to excite the fluorochrome also reduces out-of-focus flare, thereby enhancing image quality in thick specimens. Conversely, confocal microscopy uses a laser to scan multiple planes and a pinhole to block out-of-focus light, which improves image clarity but does not have the same depth penetration and gentle fluorescence excitation as the multiphoton technique.